March 5,2019-
The annual estimate of fall Chinook salmon abundance off the California coast has come in higher for 2019. The National Marine Fisheries Service estimate just released expects Sacramento River salmon (SRFC) adults off the coast will be 379.6 thousand,up from 229.4 thousand in 2017. It is the highest preseason estimate since 2015.
Experts suggest wet weather in 2016/17 helped more river salmon survived the trip to the ocean but beneficial conditions in the Pacific itself also play a part, allowing the young fish to survive in higher numbers measured two years later.
The agency notes that in 2018 the adult escapement fell short of targets not reaching the minimum escapement target of 122,000- the fourth year in a row the escapement goal has not been met.
With the higher numbers offshore the local fishing industry as well as recreational fishermen should have a better year.
“We are cautiously optimistic that the increase in ocean abundance of SRFC will translate into more fishing opportunity this year,” said CDFW Environmental Scientist Kandice Morgenstern.
